In cooperation with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), EV Global Motors Co., of North Hills, Calif., is voluntarily recalling about 2,000 lithium batteries in Mini E-Bike electric bicycles. The lithium ion batteries in these bicycles can overheat and pose a fire hazard.

EV Global Motors has received five reports of the batteries overheating, three of which caught fire, though no injuries have been reported.

The recalled lithium ion batteries are used to power EV Global's folding Mini E-Bike. The battery, which is located in the battery compartment just in front of the seat, is supplied with most models of the Mini E-Bike. The words "mini e-bike" are printed on the side of the bicycle near the steering column. These bicycles are manufactured in Taiwan and the battery packs are assembled in the U.S.

Bicycle, automobile and Internet retailers nationwide sold the electric bikes from February 2001 through July 2002 for between $1,400 and $1,700.

Consumers should stop using these bicycles immediately and contact EV Global at (888) 875-4545 between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday for information on receiving a free replacement battery and charger. Consumers also can log on to the company's web site at www.EVGlobal.com. The firm also will extend the warranty of the battery from 6 months to a year.